Psalm 120 marks the beginning of a group of psalms known as the Psalms of Ascent or Psalms of Degree (Ps. 120-134). These songs were sung by Israelite pilgrims as they journeyed up the hill of Jerusalem to celebrate holidays such as the Feast of Booths, Festival of Weeks, and the Passover. Jerusalem, also known as Mount Zion and the City of David, was the place that God had chosen to put His name (2 Kings 23:27).
In the Old Testament, the first mention of Jerusalem is in reference Melchizedek, king of Salem (Gen. 14:18). Details are scarce about the city at that particular time. Later we find the city inhabited by the Jebusites. When David became king of Israel, he removed the Jebusites and established Jerusalem as Israel’s capital (2 Sam. 5:6-12). Once David had secured Jerusalem, he brought the Ark of the Covenant to be housed in the Tabernacle (2 Sam. 6:12-19). Later the Temple erected in Jerusalem under the leadership of Solomon.
Psalm 122 is one of the songs that would be sung as Israelites traversed toward Jerusalem. They would joyfully proclaim, “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord” (Ps. 122:1). They were rejoicing on their way to God’s house. Keep in mind, that such a journey for many Jews was difficult. Unlike today, there were no modern conveniences of air travel or driving a minivan to Jerusalem. They were walking or riding a beast of burden. Furthermore, they would be bringing animals for the sacrifices. Traveling to Jerusalem was a demanding undertaking.
In the 21st Century we have all the modern conveniences of travel. Add to that the benefit of churches on every corner, that are equipped with air conditioning, and in-door plumbing. Churches are doing everything they can to make the church inviting and allow people to feel comfortable. And we should be glad about it! Despite the advancements of technology and convenience, there will always people who resent attending church services. There are those whose personal preferences and inclinations aren’t met, so they’d rather just find another church or not attend one at all. Such attitudes are a detriment to one’s soul and family.
Perhaps we should be thankful for what God has done for the church in the 21st Century, and become like the Old Testament Jews and say, “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord!”